The University of Makeni community gathered on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at its Yoni Campus for a spiritually enriching Lenten Retreat focused on the biblical foundations of leadership and the renewal of African governance. The retreat brought together academic and administrative staff in a moment of reflection, renewal, and recommitment to values-based leadership.
The retreat was facilitated by Gabriel Basuzwa, who also served as chief celebrant during the concluding Holy Mass. In his reflections, Fr. Basuzwa challenged participants to embrace what he described as a “spirituality of communion,” grounded in African cultural heritage and guided by divine providence. He emphasized that authentic leadership reflects the example of the “Good Shepherd”—a model built on service, sacrifice, accountability, and care for the common good.
Drawing connections between traditional African solidarity and modern institutional efficiency, Fr. Basuzwa encouraged staff to foster a culture where the success of one colleague is celebrated as the success of all. He noted that leadership within educational institutions must go beyond administrative roles to embody moral courage, collaboration, and social responsibility.
Vice Chancellor Joseph Turay commended the retreat as a vital spiritual milestone during the Lenten season. He urged staff to remain steadfast as architects of a “new Sierra Leone,” emphasizing transformative leadership and gender equality as essential pillars of national progress.
“When you come to UNIMAK, you are already a leader,” Professor Turay stated. “This retreat is a step in the right direction to ensure that leadership is one of service, integrity, and transformation.”
The retreat reaffirmed UNIMAK’s commitment to nurturing not only academic excellence but also ethical, servant-oriented leadership capable of shaping both the institution and the broader society.
